Issue 93 | NOVEMBER 2014
News For SeniorsA publication offering information, guidance and inspiration to Australian senior citizens
Read about champion race walker Heather Lee
Stay safe online—useful tips
Keep up-to-date with news for older Australians
Let’s talk about aged care
Are you using prescription medicines?
Keeping your financial affairs in order
ContentsA message from the Prime Minister 3
A message from the Minister 4
myGov—it’s easy and convenient! 5
Stay safe online 6
Keep up-to-date with news for older Australians 8
Information in your language 9
News in brief 10
Let’s talk about aged care 12
Financial support for carers 13
Feature story—Journey of a lifetime 14
Are you using prescription medicines? 17
New vision loss website 18
Keeping your financial affairs in order 20
Changes to the assessment of account-based income streams 22
We can help you claim a pension from another country 23
Letter from the General Manager 26
Rates 28
Contacts 31
News for Seniors subscriptionIf you would like to receive a copy of News for Seniors, call 132 300. You can also change your address by writing to: Seniors Hub, PO Box 7808, Canberra BC, ACT 2610.
Department of Veterans’ Affairs customers should call 133 254 or Freecall™ 1800 555 254.
If you would like to receive News for Seniors in a language other than English, call 131 202. If you have a vision impairment and would prefer to receive an audio version, call 132 300.
To view English and non-English versions, go to humanservices.gov.au/newsforseniors
DISCLAIMER: The Australian Government has attempted to ensure the information in this publication is accurate. However, the government does not warrant that the information is accurate or complete nor will it be liable for any loss suffered by any person because they rely on it in any way. You should contact your local Department of Human Services office or Department of Veterans’ Affairs state office for full details of any entitlements and services to which you may be eligible, or how any pending changes in legislation, programs or services may affect you.© Commonwealth of Australia 2014. ISSN 1033-8365
A message from the Prime MinisterThe Government was elected on a commitment that we would scrap the carbon tax.
I am pleased to report to you that the carbon tax has now been scrapped.
Scrapping the carbon tax is a key part of the Government’s Economic Action Strategy to build a strong, prosperous economy for a safe, secure Australia.
Scrapping the carbon tax will save the average household $550 a year.
With the carbon tax gone, seniors will be better off.
The Bureau of Statistics has reported that, since the repeal of the carbon tax, households and businesses have benefited from the largest fall in power prices since records began.
This is good news for your weekly budget.
Pensioners and Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders will continue to keep the carbon tax compensation. But with the carbon tax scrapped, this is now real cost of living relief not just compensation for a tax hike.
The Energy Supplement, a permanent tax-exempt payment that was introduced to compensate for the ongoing impacts of the carbon tax on living expenses, will stay.
This is currently $366.60 for singles and $275.60 for each member of a couple per year.
The Pension Supplement remains available and it will also continue to be indexed twice a year.
I know in recent times there have been some false claims made about changes to the Age Pension.
So let me reassure you with some of the facts.
The pension will continue to increase twice a year, every year. Every March and every September the pension will increase and there will be no changes to the indexation arrangements in this term of Parliament.
In March this year, the maximum rate of the pension increased $15.70 a fortnight for single pensioners and $11.90 a fortnight for each member of a couple.
In September this year, the maximum rate of the pension increased $11.50 a fortnight for single pensioners and $8.70 a fortnight for each member of a couple.
Australians are living longer and healthier lives, so the Government is determined to ensure that our pension system is sustainable over the long term.
That’s why the Government is proposing from 2017 pensions be indexed to the rate of inflation rather than wages. This is already the case with other social security benefits and the pension will still continue to increase each and every year.
The Budget is about ensuring we build a stronger Australia. Governments, like households, must live within their means.
I am determined to fix our nation’s finances and strengthen the economy so that future generations aren’t saddled with the burden of debt and deficit.
We want to do the right thing by your children and grandchildren.
A message from the MinisterWelcome to another edition of News for Seniors.
This edition gives you more information about the services available to you and your families.
It also has a special supplement which outlines the growing range of digital options that can help you find and access the services you need, without having to call Centrelink or Medicare, or visit a service centre.
I encourage you to take the time to read the supplement, create a myGov account and start using the department’s digital services. If you don’t have a home computer or smart phone you can always visit one of our service centres and use one of our computers with the assistance of a friendly staff member.
I also want to take this opportunity to address a number of questions that people have raised about the changes to the Age Pension announced in the Federal Budget.
In particular, it is important that people understand what the Government is proposing as part of its strategy to ensure that our pension system is sustainable over the long term.
I hope you find the following information useful.
Will my Age Pension go down?
The Age Pension rate will continue to increase in March and September each and every year as it does now. From September 2017, the Government is proposing that the Age Pension will be indexed in line with the Consumer Price Index. This will mean that pension rates will increase with the cost of living and that the Age Pension is sustainable into the future.
Will I still receive my Age Pension Supplement?
Yes. Age pensioners will continue to receive the Pension Supplement and it will continue to be indexed twice a year. The supplement is currently up to $1651 a year for singles and up to $2490.80 a year for couples.
Will I keep the supplements/benefits paid for the carbon tax?
Yes. Even though we have abolished the carbon tax, the Energy Supplement, currently $366.60 a year for singles and $275.60 for each member of a couple, will remain.
Will there be changes to the pension income and assets tests?
Yes. The Government is proposing that the income and assets test free areas be fixed for a period of three years from 1 July 2017 and that, from 20 September 2017, the deeming thresholds for payments that are means tested be reset to $30,000 for singles and $50,000 for couples.
The changes are designed to ensure that the Age Pension is well-targeted into the future.
Will the Age Pension age increase?
Yes. Under changes made by the previous Government, the Age Pension qualifying age will be 67 on 1 July 2023.
To ensure the Age Pension remains sustainable, the Coalition Government is proposing to increase it by six months every two years from 1 July 2025 until 1 July 2035 when the qualifying age will reach 70.
People born before 1 July 1958 will not be affected by these latest changes.
Where do I go for more information?
There is more information about the Age Pension and the other services available to older Australians at humanservices.gov.au/budget
TECHNOLOGY | ONLINE
myGov—it’s easy and convenient!The digital supplement included with this issue of News for Seniors tells you step-by-step how to create a myGov account and link government services. Linking means you can access a range of services from one location, with one username and password.
We have some useful tips that will make the process even easier for you!
At any time you get stuck, click on need help? at the top right hand corner. You’ll see this on every page of the ‣website.
If you share an email address with your partner, or another member of your household, you’ll need to create a ‣new email address so that you can create your own myGov account. Use an internet search engine to find out how to create an email account (it will only take a minute or two).
When you create a password, it needs to be at least seven characters long and have at least one number. You can ‣also use any of the following characters in your password: ! @ # $ % ^ & *. To make your password more secure, don’t repeat the same character or have sequential characters. For example, AAAAA or 1234.
Make sure your password isn’t easy to guess and keep it safe. If you forget your password, select the link on the ‣myGov sign-in page to create a new one.
‣ When you follow the steps to link your government services, have your Centrelink Customer Reference Number (CRN) or Medicare card handy, as well as other additional documents like your bank statement. You might also need information about your recent activity with the government service you want to link.
‣ You’ll need to make sure your details are correct when linking to a government service. If you’re having trouble linking accounts, check that your name and personal details are correctly recorded with that service.
‣ For some government services, you may be taken to their webpage to provide more information. Other government services will ask you to choose an option that best describes your situation with that service.
‣ If you already have an online account with that service, select ‘I have an online account’. Fill in your account details and click Submit.
‣ If you’re not registered for an online account with that service, but want to be, select ‘I do not have an online account’. You’ll be sent to the Your details page for that service. Fill in the Your details page and click Next.
‣ If you’re a Centrelink customer, you need to create a Centrelink online account, before your myGov account, to use the Express Plus Centrelink mobile app.
‣ If you have been given a linking code for any or all of your accounts, select ‘I have a linking code’. Type the linking code and your agency reference number in the boxes provided and click Next.
Stay safe onlineThere are a lot of things you can do online these days like your banking, paying bills or doing your business with us.
You can do all this through different digital devices—computers, tablets or smart phones. Online services are great because they’re easy, convenient and allow you to do things when and where it suits you.
When you’re using different online services, remember that it’s important to protect your information. There are things you can do to ensure your online safety:
Don’t share your passwords, log on details, Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) or secret questions and answers.Don’t provide personal information to any individual or organisation who asks you for these details to undertake credit checks or other similar activities. Immediately report any suspicious or unauthorised online activity by going to scamwatch.gov.au
Always log off or close down your internet browser sessions when using your online services.
Create strong passwords using letters, numbers, capitals and special characters.
Be careful when using public computers at internet cafés or libraries to do your secure online business.
Protect your computer by using appropriate security software, using caution when downloading files, and by not clicking on links (URLs) or attachments from unknown sources.
Protect your tablet or smart phone by placing a password on your phone and a PIN on your SIM card, and also set your device to lock after a short period.
Use mobile security software and reputable websites and mobile apps.
Visit staysmartonline.gov.au for more useful information about online safety and security.
We keep your personal information secure and take your online security seriously.
We keep your data safe by:
storing it securely and backing it up regularly
keeping a log of access to your personal information so we can identify and address any unauthorised behaviour
confirming your details when you contact us.
We won’t:
send you an email or SMS asking for your bank account details or your online account log on details
ask you to tell us your password or your PIN, but you’ll need to type them in to access your myGov account, online accounts or Express Plus mobile apps
contact you via online social media sites, such as Facebook or Twitter, asking for your personal information
send you an SMS containing a link (URL) or an email containing a link. The only links you’ll receive from the department will be when you’re logged on to and using your secure account
pass on your information to anyone without your consent, unless the law permits us to do so.
Don’t have internet access or a smart phone?It’s ok! You can still call us or visit us at your nearest service centre.
If you choose to call us, try the self service option first by calling 136 240. Phone self service lets you update your personal or bank details, access information about your payments, request a replacement card or documents and much more.
You only have to register for phone self service once. You can do this:
• by using the phone self service line 136 240• by calling your regular ‘13’ payment number• at a Centrelink Service Centre. Next time you visit one of our service centres, try out one of the self service computers. You can use your Centrelink and Medicare online accounts to access your information and update your details, so you may not need to join the queue.
If you haven’t used one of the self service computers before, just ask one of our Service Officers and they’ll be happy to give you a hand.
We also have over 350 Agents and 230 Access Points around the country, so if you live in a rural, regional or remote location you can still access our services.
Visit humanservices.gov.au/selfservice for more information about our self service options.
Be aware of scams and hoaxesThere are many variations of scams including email, phone, advance payment, investment and departmental payment scams. You can find out more about these types of scams and how to report them by going to humanservices.gov.au and searching for ‘scams’.
Keep up-to-date with news for older AustraliansDid you know you can now read the latest news from the department and important changes to relevant payments and services on our website?
You can also subscribe to receive monthly news highlights, which means you’ll regularly be notified when there is something new and important you should read on news for older Australians.
Anyone can subscribe, and it’s easy.
• Visit humanservices.gov.au/olderaustraliansnews• Enter your name and email address and click the ‘Subscribe’ button.• A confirmation email will be sent to you.• Click on the link in the email to confirm your subscription.• Once you have confirmed, you’ll start receiving updates each month.Let others know about how they can get news for older Australians direct to their inbox each month.
For the latest news go to humanservices.gov.au/olderaustraliansnews
Information in your languageYou can visit our website to read, listen to or watch information about payments and services in your preferred language.
We also have translated issues of News for Seniors available in 16 languages.
• Visit humanservices.gov.au/yourlanguage• Click on your preferred language.• Click on the subject or publication you want to learn more about.For more information, visit humanservices.gov.au/yourlanguage
Australian Seniors Computer Clubs AssociationReaders interested in developing their computer skills can contact the Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association (ASCCA), which supports and encourages older Australians to take advantage of modern information technology and become computer literate at their own pace, in a friendly environment.
For more information:
• go to ascca.org.au• email [email protected]• call 02 9286 3871, or• write to ASCCA, Level LG, 280 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW 2000.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Australian of the Year Awards 2015Every year, the Australian of the Year Awards recognises 128 Australians across four categories: Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year and Australia’s Local Hero.
Presentation ceremonies are being held around the country in November and recipients will then go on to represent their state or territory at the national announcement in Canberra on 25 January 2015.
It’s easy to nominate someone who is making a difference to the community for the Awards—go to australianoftheyear.org.au
You can also find out more and read the stories of the many inspirational Australians who have been recognised on the website.
Manage day-to-day expenses with CentrepayIf you receive a Centrelink payment, such as Age Pension, you can use Centrepay to help manage your day-to-day living expenses.
It’s a free and voluntary bill paying service that allows you to pay bills directly and securely from your Centrelink payments.
Instead of having large bills every month or quarter, your bills are paid in manageable amounts from your fortnightly payment, making it easier for you to budget. You can pay bills like gas, water, electricity and home care services.
You can start, change or cancel Centrepay deductions at any time, to suit your own personal circumstances. You can also manage your deductions from your Centrelink online account. Our online guides take you step-by-step through the process of setting up Centrepay deductions, removing or changing a deduction. Go to humanservices.gov.au/onlineguides
To find out more about Centrepay, go to humanservices.gov.au/centrepay
Find a better basic bank accountAn online list of basic bank accounts is making it easier for customers to shop around for a transaction account which best suits them.
The Australian Bankers’ Association (ABA) website affordablebanking.info makes sure all Australians are aware of, and have access to, basic bank accounts with a wide range of fee-free features. The website allows customers to check if they’re eligible for a basic bank account, the names of the accounts and the banks that offer them. This may not be a complete list of all the affordable banking products available. You should always check the product is right for you and your needs.
For more information, go to affordablebanking.info
National Public HolidaysYou need to be aware that the dates for reporting your income may change around National Public Holidays. Information about holiday reporting and payment arrangements will be available closer to these dates at humanservices.gov.au/holidays
The National Public Holidays for 2014–15 are:
• Christmas Day—Thursday 25 December 2014• Boxing Day—Friday 26 December 2014• Australian Public Service Holiday—Monday 29 December 2014• New Year’s Day—Thursday 1 January 2015• Australia Day—Monday 26 January 2015• Easter—Friday 3 and Monday 6 April 2015.
Have you lodged your tax return?To lodge a tax return online with e-tax or the new myTax, you need to create a myGov account and link to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Your Centrelink income information and Medicare benefit details will automatically be pre-filled for you. This means you won’t need to refer to, or provide, a hard copy payment summary or Medicare Benefit Tax statement in order to complete your lodgement. Your information will also be pre-filled for you if you decide not to lodge online and use a registered tax agent instead.
If you want a copy of your payment summary:
• use your Centrelink online account• use one of our Express Plus mobile apps• call your usual payment line and follow the self service prompts, or• visit your local service centre.If you receive family assistance, you can use our Tax Time Checker to find out what information you need to tell us. The Tax Time Checker will step you through how to claim and balance your family assistance payments.
For more information about tax time, including payment summaries and Medicare Benefit Tax statements, visit humanservices.gov.au/taxtime
To create a myGov account, visit my.gov.au
NEWS | AGED CARE
Let’s talk about aged careHaving conversations with your family about aged care can be difficult. But the sooner you start talking about it and planning ahead, the better the outcome will be for both you and your family.
Planning in advance, rather than having to investigate options as the result of an emergency, such as a serious fall, ensures help and support will be there when it’s needed. This is why the Australian Government is urging all Australians to become familiar with the changes that came into effect on 1 July 2014—including new financial arrangements and greater transparency in the costs of aged care. These changes give you greater choice, more control and more of the services you might need to stay independent.
The Government will continue to meet the majority of costs for both home and residential aged care, but where you can afford to, you’ll be asked to contribute to the costs.
To help you understand the new financial arrangements and calculate your fees, two fee estimators—one for home care and one for residential care—are available at myagedcare.gov.au
You can also call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 for help with using the fee estimators or for an estimate over the phone. You’ll need to have your financial information ready when you call, including the details of your various types of income and assets.
You can also view and compare accommodation costs and a description of each residential care facility by visiting myagedcare.gov.au
For home care, the actual fees you may be asked to pay will depend on an assessment of your income by the Department of Human Services. For residential care, your fees will be based on an assessment of your income and assets. For more information, visit humanservices.gov.au and search for ‘aged care means test assessments’.
The Financial Information Service (FIS) provides free and confidential information about investments and financial issues. You can talk to a FIS officer about how your income and assets are
used to work out the aged care fees you may have to pay. Call 132 300 or visit humanservices.gov.au/fis
You can also seek independent advice about your investments from a financial adviser.
Because everyone’s circumstances and preferences are unique, the most important thing you and your family can do is to learn about the aged care choices available, so you know what you want and can plan for it.
For help or more information, call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 or visit myagedcare.gov.au
Financial support for carersDid you know there are several payments and services available if you provide full-time care for someone with severe disability, medical condition, or who is frail aged?
Carer Payment provides you with financial support if you’re unable to work because you’re providing full-time daily care for someone.
You may also be eligible for Carer Allowance if you’re providing additional daily care. Carer Allowance is free of the income and assets test, is not taxable and can be paid in addition to wages, Carer Payment or any other Centrelink payment.
If you’re in receipt of Carer Payment or Carer Allowance on 1 July each year, you may also be eligible for the Carer Supplement. This is an annual lump-sum payment to help with the costs of caring for a person with disability or medical condition. You don’t need to do anything to receive this payment. It will be automatically paid at the same time as your first Carer Payment in July each year.
For more information, visit humanservices.gov.au/carers
FEATURE STORY | HEATHER LEE
Journey of a lifetime It’s been a year of highs and lows for 87 year-old champion race walker Heather Lee, but as far as she’s concerned, it’s not about the wins, records and awards—it’s what she’s learned achieving them.
“It is possible to beat the age barrier by living a healthy life and exercising,” says Heather.
She imparts what she believes to be a valuable ethos for those who think they are just too old to change their ways.
After losing her husband, Leonard, to cancer in 1997, Heather began walking recreationally as a way to cope with her grief. Regularly striding past participants half her age in charity events like Relay for Life, the Sydney Bridge Run and City2Surf, she knew it was time to try out against the pros.
In October 2011, Heather went to compete in the Adelaide Masters Games where, despite her uncertainty about the finer details of her new hobby, she took home four gold medals. Spurred on by her success, Heather decided it was well within her ability to become a race-walking record holder.
“My first attempt was in Bankstown a couple of years ago in very hot conditions,” Heather recalls.
“I won my first Australian Record then. I was elated and knew it was only the start for records to come.”
And right she was! Heather currently holds four state and Australian records in the 1500, 3000, 5000 and 10 000 metre events.
The pinnacle of her race walking career, at the age of 85, was taking out two World Records at the Pan Pacific Games in 2012. She also took home three gold medals.
“It was my proudest moment; to prove to myself that I could do it.”
Since then, Heather has competed in the Australian Masters Games in Geelong in 2013, where she took home three gold medals, and again in Hobart in 2014.
Earlier this year, she took first position in the 70+ age group in the Sydney Mother’s Day Classic. She also walked in her 11th Relay for Life to raise funds for cancer research.
Heather attributes her accomplishments to the camaraderie she has with her competitors, and a race strategy that doesn’t involve trying to keep up with the younger contingent.
“In one event I went out at least 40 seconds faster than my speed when training!” says Heather.
“Needless to say I was breathless and finished in a slower time. A lesson learned for the future.”
Heather was Sportsperson of the Year in 2012 and has a collection of other awards. The most prestigious of these was presented to her on Australia Day in 2014. She was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for her service to athletics through masters race-walking, and to the community.
But it is with her future securely in mind that Heather is determined to not let go of the past.
“My husband’s last words have stayed with me always and I’ve tried to follow his creed,” says Heather.
“He said 'Now is the time to show your mettle' meaning it was the time to show the world what I was made of and that he knew I was capable of standing alone. He would be thrilled with what I have done and would say ‘I knew you wouldn’t let me down’. ”
You can find out more about Heather’s continuing journey on her website at heatherlee.com.au or follow her training and triumphs on YouTube.
HEALTH | CHANGES
Tax offset for medical expenses The net medical expenses tax offset is being phased out from 1 July 2013. To be eligible to claim the offset in your tax return this year, you need to have received the offset in your 2012–13 income tax assessment.
Similarly, to claim the offset in 2014–15, you have to have received the offset in 2013–14. The 2014–15 financial year is the final year you can claim.
This does not apply if you have medical expenses relating to disability aids, attendant care and aged care. The offset will be available for you to claim these medical expenses until 30 June 2019.
For more information, visit ato.gov.au/medicalexpenses
Are you using prescription medicines? Your health is too important to take any risks with your medicines. Medicines have the potential to cause serious side effects and health problems if not used properly.
To help you make the most of your medicines follow these tips:
1. Always check with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist about managing your medicines, including how to take them. Find out if you should take your medicines with food or what medicines to be careful of using together.
2. Don’t buy medicines on the internet. Medicines bought on the internet do not contribute towards your Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) Safety Net. If you or your family need a lot of medicine in a calendar year, the PBS Safety Net helps you with the cost of these medicines. For more information visit humanservices.gov.au/pbs
3. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you’re taking, including herbal products and over-the-counter medicines, and about past problems you’ve had with medicines, such as rashes, indigestion, dizziness or loss of appetite.
4. Read the label on the container or the information sheet that comes with your medicine carefully and follow its directions. Make sure you understand how often, when and how much medicine to take each day.
5. Call your doctor right away if you experience any problems with your medicines.6. Don't mix alcohol with your medicine unless your doctor or pharmacist says it's ok. Some medicines may not
work well or may have side effects if taken with alcohol.Medicines can interact with each other in unexpected ways, so if you’re taking more than one medicine at the same time you should be extra careful.
If you take multiple medicines or have been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes in the last 12 months, you may be eligible for the MedsCheck Program. Your pharmacist may be able to review your medicines as part of the program to help you better understand your medicines and make sure you’re using them correctly.
For more information, speak with your pharmacist.
HEALTH | VISION
Life doesn’t have to stop because of vision loss Some of the most common conditions that lead to vision loss are linked to age. These conditions include glaucoma, macular degeneration and cataracts.
Earlier this year, visionloss.com.au was launched—a new information portal about eye health and resources for people with impaired vision. It’s a comprehensive website giving tips and advice on prevention, mobility aids, services, case studies and more. There’s a section for people who have been newly diagnosed, which provides some background on how you might be feeling and how to process it.
Low vision or vision loss doesn’t mean you can’t maintain your independence, mobility and quality of life. Seniors, who are having trouble getting around because of declining sight, are urged to seek help early.
“Some people with vision loss won’t ask for help until they’ve had a fall or accident,” says Frances Tinsley, Client Services Executive Manager for Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.
The Guide Dogs organisations are known for their guide dogs but that’s only a portion of what they do. They specialise in free tailored programs that help people get around safely and independently, such as:
• teaching skills and strategies for crossing the road safely • catching public transport• using a long cane • using technology, like a talking navigation system. For more information visit visionloss.com.au
LIFESTYLE | FINANCE
Keeping your financial affairs in orderPlanning for your financial future is not difficult, but it does require time and effort. There are some steps you can take to help you make the right financial decisions for your situation.
Know your rights
When you make a financial decision, you should know what you’re agreeing to and what the possible outcomes of your decision may be.
You shouldn’t sign any documents you don’t understand or if they’re not in your language, and you shouldn’t let someone else use your bank card or PIN for shopping or paying bills.
In some circumstances, the financial decisions you make may affect your Centrelink payments. For example, it’s important you understand how your payments may be affected if you decide to:
• sell your home and give the money to someone who has agreed to take care of you in the future• move in with a relative, or have a relative move in with you• give or lend money to someone.For more information visit humanservices.gov.au/assets
If someone asks you to sign documents, or do something you don’t understand, you should seek further information before you agree to anything by:
• asking questions • speaking to one of our social workers, who can provide confidential counselling, support and information. For
more information visit humanservices.gov.au/socialwork or call 132 850 to speak to a social worker• speaking to one of our Financial Information Service (FIS) officers, who can show you how to make informed
financial decisions and help you to understand the consequences of those decisions. For more information visit humanservices.gov.au/fis or call 132 300
• seeking independent advice from a financial adviser or solicitor.
Make sure your will is up-to-dateEveryone should have a valid will so that your assets are given to the people you choose after your death.
It’s important to review your will on a regular basis or whenever your circumstances change. Be aware of events that may invalidate your will, for example, a new marriage would void a previous will but a divorce wouldn’t.
You should make sure the person managing your estate can easily locate all of your financial information. You can do this by creating a file that lists all your assets, liabilities, insurance policies and other financial information.
You should include all relevant details including your:
• financial institutions• account numbers• names of accounts• policy providers and numbers.You should also include the date you opened your accounts or commenced policies, and any information that may be required to accurately identify you or your accounts.
Tools to help youFIS seminars
Our FIS officers hold free financial information seminars in a range of locations across Australia. You can attend the seminars to learn more about saving and investing, preparing for retirement or to help you better understand your pension and the options you may have.
Visit humanservices.gov.au/fis for a list of upcoming seminars in your area.
Booking is essential and can be made by calling 136 357 or emailing [email protected]
MoneySmart
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission's (ASIC) MoneySmart website offers free and independent guidance to help you make the best choices for your money.
There are more than 26 online calculators and tools that can help you make financial decisions. The website also provides information about where to get help in a crisis including how to find a financial counsellor in your area and emergency relief numbers.
Visit moneysmart.gov.au and search for ‘urgent money help’ for tips when you’re facing financial or life decisions.
PAYMENTS AND CONCESSIONS
Changes to the assessment of account-based income streams From 1 January 2015, the deeming rules that apply to financial investments will be extended to account-based income streams (also known as allocated income streams and account-based pensions).
Deeming assumes your financial assets are earning a certain amount of income, regardless of the income you actually earn. Deeming encourages you to earn more income from your investments and reduce the extent that your payments may vary.
It’s important to know that from 1 January 2015:
• if you’re a Low Income Health Care Card holder, we’ll use the deemed income from your account-based income stream product to assess your entitlement to the Health Care Card
• if you’re a self-funded retiree and receive aged care, we’ll use the deemed income from your account-based income stream product to assess your aged care fees
• if you’re receiving an income support payment, like a pension or allowance, before 1 January 2015, the account-based income stream products you hold before this date will continue to be assessed under the existing rules
• if you stop receiving income support payments, your account-based income stream product may be reassessed using the deeming rules if you receive these payments again in the future
• if you change or buy a new account-based income stream product from 1 January 2015, we’ll assess it using the deeming rules
• if your partner holds an account-based income stream product and your partner is not receiving income support payments, the deeming rules will apply to their product and be used when calculating your entitlement. This may affect your payments or your aged care fees.
Our Financial Information Service (FIS) provides free confidential information about investment and financial issues. Speak with one of our FIS officers for more information about the deeming rules and how they may affect your payment by calling 132 300 or visiting humanservices.gov.au and search for ‘income streams’.
You should also seek independent advice about investing your financial assets. The following websites are useful resources that can help you make the most of your money:
• moneysmart.gov.au• nicri.org.au
We can help you claim a pension from another country The Department of Human Services can help you claim a pension from many countries—even if you’re not receiving any Australian payments or benefits.
At no cost to you we can:
• send you claim forms for some countries, or let you know how to obtain them
• help you complete forms• provide bilingual officers and/or interpreters to speak to you in your preferred language• copy and certify all necessary original documents• verify your identity• verify your Australian residence• send your claim to countries with which Australia has a social security agreement. If you’re receiving the Australian Age Pension and you have lived or worked outside Australia, you’re legally required to claim any non-Australian pension to which you may be entitled. You must also tell us about any payments of foreign pension or income you receive while receiving an Australian pension or benefit.
Australia has international social security agreements with a number of countries, making it easier to claim pensions from those countries. They are: Austria, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Latvia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Malta, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland and the United States of America.
It may also be possible to claim a pension from countries with which Australia doesn’t have a social security agreement. We can help you with the claiming process and we provide this service at no cost.
For more information about how to claim a pension from another country, visit humanservices.gov.au/international or call 131 673 or 131 202 for assistance and information in languages other than English.
Letter from the General Manager
Dear readers,
It’s hard to believe the first edition of News for Seniors, originally called Age Pension News, was produced in 1989. I’m proud to have been associated with the publication since its inception 25 years ago. I hope you have enjoyed each edition as much as I have.
As the year draws to a close and many of you arrange travel plans, some readers have asked when they need to let our department know if they’re going overseas. Remember, if your overseas trip is for less than six weeks, and you’re receiving Age Pension or hold a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card, you no longer need to tell us. Instead, Australia’s immigration department will let us know automatically about your departure and return dates. Your payment and card will generally be unaffected.
You can find more information—including whether to tell us you’re travelling—on our website at
humanservices.gov.au/paymentsoverseas
In particular, if you’re going to be overseas for more than six weeks, make sure you let us know by calling us or visiting a service centre. This is so we can tell you how your payment and card may be affected.
When you call, you can avoid waiting on hold by using our Place in Queue call back service—you just need to meet some basic criteria first. For example, if you call the Older Australians line, you need to call between 8 am and 3 pm Monday to Friday and enter your Customer Reference Number (CRN) when prompted.
You’ll then be asked to say what you’re calling about and once offered a call back, you can hang up and get on with your day, knowing we will phone you back as soon as your call becomes first in line. A number of attempts will be made if you miss the initial call back.
I’d encourage you to find out more on our website at humanservices.gov.au/piq
Some readers have also contacted me asking why they haven’t been receiving our magazine. Remember, there have been some changes to News for Seniors this year and we will now publish our magazine twice a year instead of quarterly.
I want you to know though that we’ll continue to provide a very high quality magazine that aims to keep our more than two million readers updated on government payments, services and information relevant to you.
Finally, as the year draws to a close, I want to thank readers for their continued support for News for Seniors. This is your magazine and we love to hear from you on what you think matters the most.
We wish you and those close to you a wonderful Christmas and the best of health in the New Year.
I’ll be taking some time off over the Christmas and New Year period. Please keep your letters and emails coming and I will respond when I’m back early in the New Year. If you have an urgent matter, I’d encourage you to contact the department in one of the ways listed at humanservices.gov.au/contact
RATES | valid from 20 SEPTEMBER TO 31 DECEMBER 2014
Pension and Rent Assistance Rates and Thresholds
SINGLE COUPLE combined
COUPLE one eligible partner
COUPLE separated due to ill health
How much pension Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight each
Maximum basic rate1 $776.70 $1,171.00 $585.50 $776.70
Maximum pension supplement $63.50 $95.80 $47.90 $63.50
Energy Supplement $14.10 $21.20 $10.60 $14.10
TOTAL $854.30 $1,288.00 $644.00 $854.30
Rent Assistance2 Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight each
Maximum rate $127.60 $120.00 $120.00 $127.60
You will be eligible for the maximum rate of rent assistance if your
$283.33 $344.20 $344.20 $283.33
fortnightly rent is more than
You will not be eligible for rent assistance if your fortnightly rent is less than
$113.20 $184.20 $184.20 $113.20
Allowable Income1a Per fortnight Combined Combined Combined
Full pension up to $160.00 up to $284.00 up to $284.00 up to $284.00
Part pensionless than $1,868.60
less than $2,860.00
less than $2,860.00
less than $3,701.20
Allowable Assets3 Single Combined Combined Combined
Full pension—Home owner $202,000 $286,500 $286,500 $286,500
Full pension—Non-home owner $348,500 $433,000 $433,000 $433,000
Part pension—Home owner less than $771,750
less than $1,145,500
less than $1,145,500
less than $1,426,000
Part pension—Non-home ownerless than $918,250
less than $1,292,000
less than $1,292,000
less than $1,572,500
Deeming Rates and Thresholds Single Combined Combined Combined
Threshold $48,000 $79,600 $79,600 $79,600
Rate below threshold 2% 2% 2% 2%
Rate above threshold 3.5% 3.5% 3.5% 3.5%
Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC)
Single Combined Combined Combined
Income limit (per annum)4 $51,500 $82,400 $82,400 $103,000
Energy Supplement (per annum)5, 6 $366.60 $551.20 $275.60 $366.60 each
Pension Bonus Scheme Maximum Rates Indexed 20 March and 20 September
SINGLE PARTNERED (each)
Registration in the Pension Bonus Scheme* is limited to those who met the age and residence requirements for Age Pension before 20 September 2009 and lodged an application to register prior to 1 July 2014. *If you are receiving or have received Age Maximum Bonus after Year 1 $1,952.30 $1,475.90
Pension, you are not eligible for a Pension Bonus.
Maximum Bonus after Year 2 $7,809.10 $5,903.70
Maximum Bonus after Year 3 $17,570.40 $13,283.40
Maximum Bonus after Year 4 $31,236.30 $23,614.90
Maximum Bonus after Year 5 $48,806.70 $36,898.30
Pension Reform Transitional Arrangements Rates and Thresholds
SINGLE COUPLE combined
COUPLE one eligible partner
COUPLE separated due to ill health
How much pension Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight Per fortnight each
Maximum rate $706.80 $1,141.60 $570.80 $706.80
Energy Supplement $14.10 $21.20 $10.60 $14.10
Total $720.90 $1,162.80 $581.40 $720.90
Allowable Income Per fortnight Combined Combined Combined
Full pension up to $160.00 up to $284.00 up to $284.00 up to $284.00
Part pensionless than $1,962.25 less than
$3,191.00less than $3,191.00
less than $3,888.50
Allowable Assets Single Combined Combined Combined
Full pension—Home owner $202,000 $286,500 $286,500 $286,500
Full Pension—Non-home owner
$348,500 $433,000 $433,000 $433,000
Part Pension—Home ownerless than $682,750
less than $1,062,000
less than $1,062,000
less than $1,248,000
Part Pension—Non-home owner
less than $829,250
less than $1,208,500
less than $1,208,500
less than $1,394,500
The transitional arrangements apply to certain pensioners who were receiving part pensions as at 19 September 2009 and only applies until they would get an equal or higher rate under the new rules.
These figures are a guide only. Effective 20 September 2014 unless otherwise stated.
1. Rate of payment is calculated under both the income and assets tests. The test that results in the lower rate (or nil rate) is the one that is applied. There is no income or assets test for customers who are permanently blind, unless
they wish to apply for Rent Assistance. Some assets are deemed to earn income and there are special rules for other types of income.a. Income over allowable amounts for full pension reduces pension by 50 cents in the dollar for singles and 25
cents in the dollar each for couples; for those paid under the transitional arrangements, the pension reduces by 40 cents in the dollar for singles and 20 cents in the dollar each for couples. These limits may be higher if Rent Assistance is paid with your pension. Contact the Department of Human Services on 132 300 for information on transitional arrangements.
b. Each fortnight, the Work Bonus disregards up to $250 of employment income earned by eligible pensioners over age pension age (unless paid Parenting Payment Single).If employment income is less than $250, the unused Work Bonus accrues up to a maximum amount of $6500. This bank then discounts future employment income that exceeds $250 per fortnight. If eligible for a transitional rate, we will compare the transitional rate (which has no Work Bonus) to the new rate (which has the Work Bonus). The transitional rate will continue until it no longer pays a higher rate.
2. Rent Assistance is not payable to people paying rent to a government housing authority. Special rules apply to single sharers, people who pay board and lodging or live in a retirement village. There are additional rates for those who have dependent children. Rent Assistance is generally paid with Family Tax Benefit if there are dependent children, or with the pension if there are no children. For temporarily separated rates, call 132 300.
3. Single and combined couple rates are reduced by $1.50 per fortnight for every $1000 of additional assets above the allowable assets limits for full pension. Certain assets, including a person’s home, are not included in the assets test. These limits may be higher if Rent Assistance is paid with your pension.
4. Income test for the CSHC is adjusted taxable income.5. The Energy Supplement for Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) holders is paid quarterly. To calculate
the quarterly amount, obtain the daily rate of the supplement by dividing the annual amount by 364. The quarterly amount is then calculated by multiplying the daily rate by the number of days the supplement is payable in that quarter.
6. As part of the 2014–15 Budget, the Seniors Supplement for Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) holders will no longer be paid. This is subject to the passage of legislation. CSHC holders will continue to receive the Energy Supplement each quarter.
Note: Absences from Australia may affect your payments. If you are planning on travelling outside Australia and would like information as to how this may affect your payment then please contact the Department of Human Services on 132 300.
For more information call 132 300.
CONTACTS | SELF SERVICE OPTIONSThere are several ways you can manage your business with us, including:
• Online account—create a myGov account at my.gov.au with one username and password to access your Centrelink and Medicare accounts online and do things like claim a payment or concession card, view your claims history and receive online letters.
• Express Plus Centrelink mobile app—if you have online access to your Centrelink account and have level 3 access, you can use the Express Plus Centrelink mobile app. You can update your details, receive online letters, read News for Seniors and much more.
• Phone self service—call 136 240 to request a replacement card, Income Statement or have other documents sent to you in the mail.
If you prefer to visit us, skip the queue at a service centre and use our self service computers. You can access your Medicare and Centrelink online accounts or view other government and community websites. You can also print your documents, look for payments and services or search for a job.
Register or find out more about online services at humanservices.gov.au/selfservice
Key Department of Human Services contactsOlder Australians 132 300
Age Pension, deeming, income and assets tests, Financial Information Service, Pension Bonus Scheme and Commonwealth Seniors Health Card.
International Services 131 673
Pensions paid outside Australia, claiming pensions from other countries, pensions paid under International Agreements.
Languages other than English 131 202
Disabilities, Sickness and Carers 132 717
Feedback and complaints Freecall™ 1800 132 468
TTY* enquiries Freecall™ 1800 810 586
TTY* Customer Relations Freecall™ 1800 000 567
*TTY is only for people who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment. A TTY phone is required to use this service.
Other key contactsDepartment of Veterans’ Affairs Call 133 254 or Freecall™ 1800 555 254 from regional Australia. Go to dva.gov.au
Department of Social Services
Call 1300 653 227 (calls are charged at a local rate except from mobile phones which are charged at mobile rates). Go to dss.gov.au
My Aged CareFreecall™ 1800 200 422. Go to myagedcare.gov.au
Note: calls from your home phone to our ‘13’ numbers from anywhere in Australia are charged at a fixed rate. That rate may vary from the price of a local call and may also vary between telephone service providers. Calls to ‘1800’ numbers from your home phone are free. Calls from public and mobile phones may be timed and charged at a higher rate.
News for Seniors advertising enquiries Contact: dtb! Advertising
Email: [email protected]
The Department of Human Services and the Commonwealth of Australia do not endorse and are not responsible for the views, products or services offered or provided by advertisers.
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